business link jan2016
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Business Link Greater Hall Chamber of CommerceTRANSCRIPT
B u s i n e s s L i n kG r e a t e r H a l l C h a m b e r . c o m
A Publication of the Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce
Chairman's ColumnPage 2
Economic DevelopmentPages 4-5
Upcoming EventsPage 6
Member AnnouncementsPage 10
VISION 2030Page 11
Welcome New MembersPage 12
Small Business of the MonthPage 12
Partners in EducationPages 14
Ribbon CuttingsPage 15
Save the Date
J A N U A R Y2 0 1 6
Thursday, January 14Business After Hours
Tuesday, January 19South Hall Business Coalition
Tuesday, January 26Small Business Workshop
Small Business WorkshopThe Greater Hall Chamber's Small Business Council and Brenau University present "Lean Principles for Small Business" on Tuesday, January 26 from 8:30-11:30 a.m. at Brenau University (Jacobs Building, 340 Green Street in Gainesville). Sponsored by Small Business Access Partners and facilitated by Brenau's Dr. James Taylor, this workshop will cover ways to apply principles of continuous improvement to small business. Dr. Taylor will draw from such topics as Lean (based upon the Toyota Production System), Six Sigma, Quality and simple business analytics. Participants will gain knowledge that will help them improve their management approach, and more importantly, leave with some very specific actions in mind. Professor James Taylor is a 30 year veteran of the automotive industry. His fields of experience have included design engineering, sales, project management, quality and continuous improvement fields. He has been at Brenau since 2007 and is Assistant Professor of Management.
Cost: $15 Chamber Members; $30 Non-Members; Includes Light Breakfast. Reservations: Amanda Lewis, 770-532-6206 x 111. Email: [email protected]
Lean Principles for Small BusinessSponsored by Small Business Access Partners
Tuesday, January 268:30-11:30 am
Brenau University Gainesville / Jacobs Bldg$15 Chamber Members • $30 Non-Members
Breakfast • Door Prizes • Networking
The Greater Hall Chamber's Annual Buy Local Safe & Green Expo returns this year bigger than ever with 70+ exhibitors, no admission fee, great networking and valuable business exposure. The Buy Local Safe & Green Expo is THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 4 at the Gainesville Civic Center from 2:00-7:00 p.m. Business After Hours with "A Taste of Gainesville" is 5:00-7:00 p.m. No Admission Fee and Free
Shuttle Service! Buy Local showcases businesses in Greater Hall County and is Northeast Georgia's Largest Trade Show Experience. Safe & Green pulls together industry representatives for connection to environmentally friendly services and safety initiatives for the workplace. Exhibitors will be able to utilize business-to-business services, while exchanging leads and developing professional relationships. Exhibit space is now available on a first come, first serve basis. Chamber Member Exhibit, $250; Non-Member, $500; Non-Profit, $150. Exhibits include an 8'x10' space, table, cloth, skirt and
chairs. Electricity is available for an additional fee. Great sponsorships at different levels are also available and include exhibit space, promotion and advertising. Download an Exhibitor Registration Form online at greaterhallchamber.com or contact Megan Martin, 770-532-6206 x 115. Email: [email protected]
BUY LOCALSafe & Green EXPO
Thursday, February 4Gainesville Civic Center
2:00-7:00 pm BUY LOCAL EXPO5:00-7:00 pm Business After Hours & Taste of Gainesville
Free • Open to the Public • Networking • Giveaways
Exhibit Space
Now Available!
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The Greater Hall Chamber's Government Affairs Division is responsible for developing and implementing business advocacy and political action for the Chamber. The Chamber's Board of Directors designates the strategic direc-tion to advocate for pro-business and quality of life issues in the Greater Hall area and provide a voice for business. The Chamber's Governmental Division is led by Chamber President & CEO Kit Dunlap, Vice Chair John Breakfield, attorney and owner of Breakfield & Associates, and staff member Garrett Wiley. Together with a dedicated group of volunteers, they work year-round to ensure that our city, county, state and federal representatives are aware of the issues which affect the Gainesville-Hall County business community. They are actively engaged in our efforts to make our area an even better place to live, work and do busi-ness and provide Chamber members with a valuable resource.
Locally, governmental issues are monitored by this division through the Issues Committee. The committee meets monthly to consider issues pertinent to business and makes recommendations to the Chamber’s Board of Directors on issues that require action and/or advocacy. Working closely with the Georgia Chamber of Commerce, the Greater Hall Chamber is an active pro-business voice both in Gainesville-Hall County and Washington D.C., voicing the concerns of the business community that might otherwise go unnoticed. Recently, a Gainesville-Hall County delegation traveled to Washington and met with Georgia U.S. Senators Johnny Isakson and David Perdue, 9th District Congressman Doug Collins, House Majority Leader Kevin McCarthy, and Chairman of the House Rules Committee, Pete Sessions. The Chamber Delegation made sure that transportation, healthcare, water and workforce development remain at the top of our elected officials' to-do lists. The Greater Hall Chamber recently held its 32nd Annual Eggs & Issues Breakfast, where state and federal lawmakers are invited to meet and share their views with the business community. With the 2016 Georgia Legislature beginning, issues discussed at included the State budget, the recently passed transportation bill, healthcare, education, water and economic development. Over 400 peo-ple from the business community attended, eager to hear from the Gainesville-Hall Delegation.
Providing a Voice for Business
Brian DanielCarroll Daniel Construction Co. Chairman, Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce
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VOLUME 21 ISSUE 7McKemie West, Editor • Email: [email protected]
greaterhallchamber.com
Charlotte Atkins, The TimesPerry Barnett, CPA, Rushton & CompanyCol. James Benson, Riverside Military AcademyPhil Bonelli, Wells FargoDr. Wanda Creel, Gainesville City SchoolsStacey Dickson, Lake Lanier CVBDanny Dunagan, Mayor, City of GainesvilleSam Evans, Councilman, City of OakwoodJosh Everett, New Leaf Landscape ServicesJimbo Floyd, Turner Wood & Smith InsuranceTony Funari, Funari RealtyLoren Funk, The Longstreet ClinicRob Geoffroy, The Atlanta FalconsEmily Hayes, Milton Martin ToyotaWill Hicks, StifelMorgan House, Lake Lanier Olympic VenueDr. Bonita Jacobs, University of North GeorgiaAnna Jacobs, Jacobs MediaLane Jones, Highland Mountain BeverageJay Kelley, Signs By TomorrowDr. John Kennedy, Lakeview AcademyMary Jane Locklear, Cox Communications
Steve McNeilly, Northeast GA Health SystemDick Mecum, Chair, Hall County CommissionTerry Merck, American YazakiMike Miller, Mayor, City of Flowery BranchSteve Naughton, Enterprising SolutionsJames Nix, Mayor, City of ClermontBill Orr, Mayor, Town of BraseltonGreg Ours, Poly EnterprisesDr. Ray Perren, Lanier Technical CollegeLarry Poole, Mayor, City of GillsvilleBrad Puryear, Mansfield EnergyBarbara Rambo, ProCare RxJeff Reinhardt, MD, The Longstreet ClinicWill Schofield, Hall County School SystemDr. Ed Schraeder, Brenau UniversityCarol Shirley, South State BankLouis Smith, Northeast Georgia Health SystemJody Spain, Cotton Eyed Joe’sGrier Todd, Lanier IslandsMilton Turner, Mayor, City of LulaPhilip Wilheit, Wilheit Packaging
Andy Bangs, Alexander, Almand & BangsCarolina Diaz, Georgia PowerCraig Dowdy, SunTrustAnna Guzman, Jackson EMCMichael Lancaster, Edward JonesErin Langford, HTI Employment Solutions
Caroline Lewallen, Jaemor FarmsMike McGraw, PrideStaffSteven Mickens, Boys & Girls ClubsJosh Schlieman, Sullivan & SchliemanGary Smith, Milton Martin HondaElizabeth Thompson, House Dressing
B u s i n e s s L i n k
Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce 2015-2016 Executive Committee
ChairmanBrian DanielCarroll Daniel Construction Co.
Chairman ElectLee HemmerThe Simpson Company
TreasurerDavid Abee, Regions Bank
Vice Chair, Economic DevelopmentBrian RochesterRochester & Associates
Vice Chair, Education Kristi Barker, Georgia Power
Vice Chair, GovernmentJohn BreakfieldBreakfield & Associates
Vice Chair, Marketing and CommunicationsKatie DubnikForum Communications
Vice Chair, Membership DevelopmentTony ParamoreGainesville Design Center
Vice Chair, South Hall CouncilAndy KalinauskasConditioned Air Systems
Vice Chair, Community DevelopmentLila Weaver, Brenau University
Chair, VISION 2030Davis WhiteLinkPoint AdvantageElizabeth Higgins, Exec Director
Co-Chairs, HALLmarkPaul ChambersAT&TJimbo FloydTurner Wood & Smith InsuranceMelissa TymchukNortheast Georgia Health System
Senior AdvisorRandall FrostStewart, Melvin & Frost
Immediate Past ChairmanDavid Lee, Jackson EMC President & CEOKit DunlapGreater Hall Chamber of Commerce
Board of Directors 2015-2016
Associate Directors 2015-2016
Staff
ExecutiveKit Dunlap, President & CEOGerri Collins, Executive Assistant
Economic DevelopmentTim Evans, Vice PresidentShelley Davis, Vice President Existing IndustryAmanda Lewis, Project ManagerGarrett Wiley, Project Manager
Finance & OperationsDavid Umberson, Vice President Finance & HR
Membership DevelopmentMegan Martin, Vice President, DevelopmentKara Tate, Vice President, Membership Sales
EducationDana Miller, Vice President
Government AffairsGarrett Wiley, Project Manager
South Hall CouncilMegan Martin, Vice President Membership
Community DevelopmentRobin Halstead, Vice President
VISION 2030Elizabeth Higgins, Executive Director
Marketing & CommunicationsKemie West, Business Link Editor/Consultant
Greater Hall Chamber Welcome CenterRobin Halstead, Manager
The Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce 2016 Nominating Committee is seeking nominations for new three-year Directors. Serving with Chamber Chairman Brian Daniel on the Director Nomi-nating Committee is Chairman-Elect Lee Hemmer, Immediate Past Chairman David Lee and Past Chairmen Dixie Truelove, Randall Frost, Jay Jacobs and Darrell Snyder. The committee will select new director nominees as stated in the Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce By-Laws:
•Anymemberingoodstandingmaysubmitoneormorenominations. •ThenomineeswillbenamedinFebruary2016. •ThenomineesareelectedinMarch2016. •Fivetosevendirectorpositionswillbeelected. •Eachnewdirectorwillserveathree-yeartermbeginningJuly1,2016. •Nominationsmustbesubmittedinwriting. •Nominationsmustbereceivedby Friday, January 29 at 5:00 p.m.
Send nominations, in writing, to: Brian Daniel, Chairman, Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce, P.O. Box 374, Gainesville, GA 30503. Details: Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce President/CEO Kit Dunlap, 770-532-6206. Email: [email protected]
Chamber Board Nominations
The Greater Hall Chamber is an active pro-business voice both in Gainesville-Hall County and Washington D.C., voicing the concerns of the business community that might otherwise go unnoticed.
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Delegation discusses issues affecting business at annual breakfastThe Chamber's 32nd Annual Eggs & Issues Breakfast featured discussion with Lt. Governor Casey Cagle and the Gainesville-Hall County Legislative Delegation. (L-R): Chamber Vice Chair Government Affairs John Breakfield, Breakfield & Associates; State Senator Butch Miller; Rep. Emory Dunahoo, Jr.; Rep. Lee Hawkins; Lt. Governor Casey Cagle; Chamber Chairman Brian Daniel, Carroll Daniel Construction; Kit Dunlap, Greater Hall Chamber; State Senator John Wilkinson; Rep. Carl Rogers; Rep. Timothy Barr; David Lee, Jackson EMC (event sponsor); Chamber Chair-Elect Lee Hemmer, The Simpson Company.
2015 Greater Hall Economic Development Year End SummaryAt the conclusion of 2015, the Greater Hall Chamber Economic Development Council reports the single best year of capital investment on record. Twenty-four (24) new and existing projects announced investment plans for over $320 million and more than 1,100 jobs.
Some of the job creation and investment announced in 2015 has already taken place, but for many companies, like Kubota, those investment and job creation plans are multi-year commitments that will take place over the next several years. Additional business expansions in 2015 included Wrigley Manufacturing, ZF Industries, First Fresh Foods, PFG Miltons, Left Nut Brewing, Academy Sports, Marel Stork and The Louver Shop.
The Chamber’s business activity for the period accounts for more than 1.7 million-square-feet of industrial and commercial space occupancy and over one million-square-feet of new construction. These capital investments do not include the anticipated development of the new Lanier Technical College Campus on Highway 365, expected to open in 2018.
A surge in Downtown Development Activity in Gainesville, Flowery Branch and Lula followed a year of record-low vacancy rates in the downtown areas for the three cities. Downtown Gainesville is becoming an attractive location for high density workforce housing with its proximity to the growing healthcare sector, universities, professional services and amenities.
2015 saw developments in area attractions with the opening of the new Atlanta Botanical Gardens Gainesville, proposed program and facility additions
at the Don Carter State Park, additional investment in Lanier Islands and new investments at the Lake Lanier Olympic Venue ahead of the 2016 Pan-Am Games and Continental Qualifier for Canoe/Kayak.
“Our population is growing at almost 2% per year," said Tim Evans, Chamber Vice President of Economic Development. "In addition to job creation, investment and construction, our economy is benefiting from an increase in the home buying market and residential development. In 2015, building permits in Gainesville-Hall County hit an all-time high."
Gainesville-Hall County’s economic growth is benefiting from many of the same factors recently cited in UGA’s Georgia Economic Outlook for 2016. Dr. Benjamin Ayers, Dean of UGA’s Terry College of Business, cited four factors contributing to a forecast of 3.3% expected growth in Georgia’s 2016 Gross State Product: 1) Georgia’s economic development pipeline of projects, 2) a robust housing construction market, 3) population growth, and 4) low oil and gas prices.
“The success we are experiencing speaks to the broad participation in this community’s economic development effort from the business community, educators, our partners and elected leadership,” said Brian Rochester, Rochester & Associates, and Chamber Vice Chair of Economic Development. “Our Chamber provides a forum for participating and working together to support the growth of existing industries, small businesses, the healthcare community, retail and business recruitment.”
With unemployment reaching a 10-year low for the Gainesville-Hall County Metropolitan Area (4.7%
October 2015), workforce development is a high priority for the Chamber and the business community. The Chamber's Workforce Development Task Force is a partnership with Lanier Technical College, Hall County Schools, Gainesville City Schools, Brenau University, the University of North Georgia and private businesses. The mission is to ensure businesses can acquire the talent and skills they need for future growth and to replace an aging workforce.
For more information on the Greater Hall Chamber's Economic Development Division, contact Vice President Tim Evans, 770-532-6206 x 107, [email protected], or Shelley Davis, Vice President of Existing Industry, 770-532-6206 x 108, [email protected]. GreaterHallChamber.com
Henry Kubota, President, Kubota Manufacturing of America (KMA), and Tim Evans, Chamber Vice President of Economic Development, with the Kubota RTV to be manufactured at KMA’s 502,000 square-foot manufacturing facility in Gainesville. The existing Gainesville KMA facility has been in production since 1988 and employs 1,300 people.
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January 5, 2016 • An A
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The Greater Hall Chamber's Healthcare Committee recently heard a presentation by Donald Palmisano Jr., Executive Director and CEO of the Medical Association of Georgia, on pressing issues in the healthcare industry. (L-R): Jack M. Chapman, Jr., MD, Gainesville Eye Associates; David J. Miller, PhD, Brenau University; Gale Starich, PhD, Brenau University; Healthcare Committee Chair Jullie King, The Longstreet Clinic, PC; Donald Palmisano Jr., Medical Association of Georgia; Deb Bailey, Northeast Georgia Health System. The Chamber's Healthcare Committee meets monthly. To learn more about this committee or how to get involved, contact Amanda Lewis, 770-532-6206 x 111. Email: [email protected]
Update on Healthcare Issues
Ribbon Cutting at Milton Martin Toyota in Oakwood (L-R): Mark Brown, CFO; Emily Hayes, Advertising & Public Relations; Tommy Martin, General Manager; Ricky Martin, Owner; Mike Martin, Owner; Jimmy Hernandez, Fixed Operations Director; Craig Pollock, Vice President of Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC. Milton Martin Toyota has 160 employees at the newly opened 82,000-square-foot dealership in Oakwood. The company was founded by Milton Martin in 1961 as a used car dealership on Green Street, and today, 2nd and 3rd generation leadership own and operate the new store featuring a relaxed, welcoming showroom, a Chick-fil-A Café, an outdoor fireplace and lounge. miltonmartintoyota.com
Milton Martin Toyota in Oakwood
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Turbo Truck Center, Northeast Georgia’s homegrown commercial truck and trailer repair facility, provides full-service repair ranging from routine maintenance to 24/7 emergency service. A certifi ed dealer of TICO terminal tractors, Turbo also houses one of Georgia’s largest independently owned paint and body collision centers with a state-of-the-art, down-draft paint booth.
Based on a 63-acre campus near Candler Road and I-985 with its sister company Syfan Logistics, Turbo’s team of 45 ASE certifi ed technicians and staff refl ect the quality workforce of the Gainesville-Hall County region.
“ This is our workplace that we call home – and we’re proud to be a part of such a dynamic local economy and community.” -- Jim Syfan, Owner and CEO
Turbo Truck Center – Northeast Georgia’s One-Stop Truck Stop
Northeast Georgia’s homegrown commercial truck and trailer repair facility, provides full-service repair ranging from routine maintenance to 24/7 emergency service. A certifi ed dealer of TICO terminal tractors, Turbo also houses one of Georgia’s largest
TurboTruckCenter.com | 2037 Old Candler Road | Gainesville, Georgia
0168 Syfan_January Biz Link Ad.indd 1 12/29/15 12:27 PM
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January 2016Wednesday, January 6Healthcare Committee8:00 a.m. – Chamber
Friday, January 8Economic Development Council7:30 a.m. – Chamber
Tuesday, January 12Small Business SeminarBy Robert Mallon, Rusty Lion Academy7:45 a.m. – 9:30 a.m. – Lanier Tech MDC
Tuesday, January 12Ambassadors Council3:45 p.m. – 2 Dog Cafe
Wednesday, January 13Network Over Coffee8:30 - 9:30 a.m. – Bojangles' Gainesville
Thursday, January 14Leadership Hall County8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Thursday, January 14 VISION 2030 Board of DirectorsPresentation by OneHall: Community of Inclusion Committee8:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. – Chamber
Thursday, January 14Business After HoursSponsored by Halski Systems5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.3030 McEver Rd, Suite 330, Gainesville
Friday, January 15Northeast Georgia Logistics Forum8:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.University of North Georgia Gainesville Continuing Ed Auditorium, Building 10
Tuesday, January 19South Hall Business CoalitionLanier Technical Update by Dr. Ray Perren, President LTC8:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m.Lanier Technical College in OakwoodLecture Hall / Building 300, Room 301
Tuesday, January 19Youth Leadership HallTrip to State Capitol / Government Program8:15 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.
Wednesday, January 20Issues Committee8:00 a.m. – Chamber
Wednesday, January 20Lunch 'n Learn12:00 p.m. - 1:-00 p.m.Milton Martin Toyota in Oakwood
Thursday, January 21Chamber Executive Committee12:00 p.m. - 1:30 p.m. – Chamber
Tuesday, January 26Small Business Workshop"Lean Principles for Small Business" By Dr. James Taylor, Brenau UniversitySponsored by Small Business Access Partners – 8:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.Brenau University / Jacobs Building340 Green Street in Gainesville
Wednesday, January 27Network Over Coffee8:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m.Chick-fil-A of Oakwood
Thursday, January 28Chamber Board of Directors12:00 p.m. - 1:30 p.m.Gainesville Civic Center
FEBRUARY 2016
Thursday, February 4Buy Local Expo / Safe & GreenExpo: 2:00 – 7:00 p.m.Business After Hours and Taste of Gainesville: 5:00 – 7:00 p.m.Gainesville Civic Center
Get all the details on these and other Upcoming Chamber Events Online: GreaterHallChamber.com
Thank You Chamber Event SponsorsBrenau University • Halski Systems• Highland Mountain Beverage
Jacobs Media Corporation • Jackson EMC • Lanier Technical College
Lowe's Gainesville • McDonald's • Milton Martin Honda
Milton Martin Toyota • Peach State Bank • Red Clay Interactive
Small Business Access Partners • Signs by Tomorrow • WSI Digital Rainmakers
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Northeast Georgia
Logistics ForumFriday, January 15
8-10 am University of North GeorgiaGainesville Campus / Continuing Ed Building #10
TOPICS
Northeast Georgia Logistics Snapshot & ResourcesDeepening of the Harbor Update
HB 170 ImpactsPANEL
Jannine Miller, Director, Center of Innovation for LogisticsStacy Watson, General Manager, Georgia Ports Authority
Meg Pirkle, Chief Engineer, Georgia Department of TransportationBen Hames, Deputy Commissioner, Georgia Workforce Division
$5 per person • Includes Continental Breakfast
To Register: Amanda Lewis, 770-532-6206 x 111 Email: [email protected] Online: greaterhallchamber.com
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• The Chamber is planning the Arbor Day 2016 Celebration and will sponsor, in partnership with the Hall County Master Gardeners, Georgia Power and Keep Hall Beautiful, an Arbor Day Art Contest for 3rd graders and Essay Contest for 5th graders. Cash prize! Educators, contact Robin Halstead, 770-532-6206. Email: [email protected]• Maggie Hodges is the newest member of the Forum Communications team. With a PR degree from the University of Tennessee Martin and her master's in Organizational Communication from the University of Arkansas, Maggie de-velops strategic, multi-channel market-ing campaigns forumspeaks.com• Governor Deal launched Georgia WorkSmart, a work-based learning initiative, at King’s Hawaiian in Flowery Branch. The initiative seeks to meet workforce needs by developing and implementing customized training programs through apprenticeships, internships and cooperative education opportunities. King’s Hawaiian will hire 25 apprentices trained through the program. georgia.org/worksmart• Sponsored by Spherion Staffing Services, the Job Fair on Wednesday March 23, 10 am - 2 pm at the Gaines-ville Civic Center, provides the perfect forum for companies hiring to recruit new employees. Meet hundreds of job candidates face-to-face. Free and open to the public. Employer Booths: $300 ($325 w/electricity); $200 Non-Profits ($225 w/electricity). Reserve space NOW! Amanda Lewis, 770-532-6206 x 111. Email: [email protected]
• The Superior Court judges of the Northeastern Judicial Circuit an-nounced the appointment of Joe Ray-mond Diaz as Juvenile Court Judge. Diaz has practiced law locally for over 23 years with bilingual representa-tion, and specializing in domestic and criminal litigation. He has served as a mediator for the Ninth District since 1994 and on the Gainesville Planning and Appeals Board. diazlawoffices.com• Since 1983, the Greater Hall Cham-ber's Leadership Hall County program has provided training and learning expe-rience for existing and emerging leaders of Gainesville-Hall County. Nomina-tions for the 2016-2017 Class are now being accepted. Individuals must be nominated for the program by March 15, 2016. Details: Dana Miller, Vice President of Education, 770-532-6206 x 113. Email: [email protected]• Matt Slappey, owner of the Northeast Atlanta branch of Murphy Business & Financial Corporation, was the top seller for the Georgia Association of Business Brokers (GABB), the state’s only professional organization dedicated to buying and selling businesses and franchises. gabb.org• David Smith, Executive Director of Center Point, a non-profit providing support and treatment services for local youth and families, announc-es Gainesville-native Dr. Marshall Bruner as new clinical director. Bruner oversees counseling services and holds a doctoral degree in clinical psychology specializing with children, adolescents and families on anger management,
depression, grief, parenting, social skills and conflict resolution. Bruner is also an ordained United Methodist minister. centerpointga.org• Roger Grabman of Grab Innovations & Services in Flowery Branch recently became a North Carolina registered Pro-fessional Engineer (PE) and also has PE registration in Louisiana and Georgia. Grab Innovations is a professional engi-
neering firm specializing in production equipment, automation, fabrication and assembly in a number of industries. Roger is treasurer of the Southeast Inventors Association, and VP, Atlanta chapter of the Georgia Society of Profes-sional Engineers. grabinnovations.com
GOT NEWS?Email: [email protected]
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New Chamber Community GuideThe Greater Hall Chamber is gearing up for a new Community Guide. In partnership with Great Southern Publishing and 365 Degree Total Marketing, the guide includes valuable information for newcomers, as well as established businesses and residents. The 2016 Community Guide will feature “2 ADS in 1” with purchases to include print and online ads which link to your site. The online version can be changed quarterly or replaced with a video. Link to the current guide on the Chamber's homepage, greaterhallchamber.com. Secure your prime position now in the Official 2016 Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce Community Guide. Contact Nelson Smith, 404-625-4153, or email: [email protected]
Business Networking EventsTommy Martin, General Manager, Kit Dunlap and Ricky Martin, Co-Owner, at Milton Martin Toyota's new showroom in Oakwood. Thank you Milton Martin Toyota for sponsoring Business Before Hours in December. The upcoming Business After Hours is Thursday, January 14 from 5:00-7:00 pm at Halski
Systems new headquarters at 3030 McEver Road, Suite 330 in Gainesville. Join Chamber members and friends for great networking with complimentary food and drink. Halski Systems provides Georgia IT network design, installation, administration, and consulting services to small, mid-size and enterprise level businesses in metro Atlanta and North Georgia. Halski offer a full range of customized, flexible IT solutions that each meet client’s individual needs. halski.com
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January 5, 2016 • An A
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2015 Wisdom Project Class (Seated L-R): Cathy Hartley, Kate Carlson, Janice Whiten, Caroline Grandy, Duncan Niven. (Standing L-R): Dick Osborne, Tom Jones, Kris Golden, Malvina Moffett, Allen Carlson, Louise Forrester, Carol Hanlon, Alison McElvery, Barbara Bostwick. Not Pictured: Carol Greene, Julie Ferguson, Beckie Smith. The senior leadership class participated in several programs and graduated in November. Next up for the group is involvement in The Wisdom Keepers, graduates of The Wisdom Project. Wisdom Keepers, now over 100+ strong, were recognized in March 2015 as a national leading model at the American Society on Aging as a visionary program which communities across the country should replicate. Wisdom Keepers are tapping into the skills/talents of their members who are former business professionals and community activists. Projects include initiating the new iTNLanier senior transportation program.
2015 Wisdom Project Graduates
VISION 2030 will host a Blue Zone Community Summit on Thursday, April 21 at 7:00 pm at the Brenau Downtown Center. The event titled "9 to THRIVE: Learn to Live Better & Longer" is open to the public and will feature Dan Buettner, a National Geographic Fellow, best selling author and nationally recognized speaker. Buettner has delivered over 3,000 speeches to audiences worldwide and traveled the globe to uncover the best strategies for longevity and happiness. He identifies Blue Zones (bluezones.com) as places that have the greatest life expectancy.
Imagine if we followed the Blue Zone Common Denominators or 9 Power Approaches and learned to Move Naturally... Have A Purpose... Down Shift Stress... Followed the 80% Full Stomach Rule... Ate More Plants... Drank More Wine... Belonged to a Faith... Put Loved Ones First... and Joined the Right Tribe. We could take our personal and community longevity and success to a new level.
The Blue Zone Community Summit is funded in part by a grant from the Healthcare Georgia Foundation and these sponsors: ProCare Rx (Purpose Sponsor $15,000); Blue Cross Blue Shield of Georgia, Northeast Georgia Medical Center Gainesville, Northeast Georgia Medical Center Braselton (Tribe Sponsors $7500); The Longstreet Clinic and CIGNA (Wine@5 Sponsors $5000); North Georgia Community Foundation, The Norton Agency, United Way of Hall County (Belong Sponsors $2500); Brenau University and Georgia Power (Move Sponsors $1000).
Tickets, $25 per person. Learn about opportunities available to help sponsor and participate in this important community event on April 21. Details: Elizabeth Higgins, VISION 2030, 770-532-6206 x 104. Email: [email protected]
Community Summit on April 21
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F & M Imports, owned by Mark Bell, has been serving Gainesville and Northeast Georgia since 1980. The shop specializes in service and repair of import cars including Mer-cedes, BMW, Audi, Porsche, Volk-swagen and Mini Cooper. The shop also repairs and services Asian cars. Mark began his career in automobile technology at the age of 12. His father owned the local Volkswagen dealership and sent him to his first Volkswagen school. Mark graduated with a business degree from Emory University in 1972. After college, Mark returned to Gainesville and worked for his father at the Volkswa-gen dealership until opening F & M. In addition to Mark, F & M employs two other ASE certified techni-cians. These two technicians have a
combined 35 years of experience. Service and repair provided by F & M Imports satisfies factory warranty requirements. F & M Imports, 2350 Murphy Boulevard, Gainesville, GA 30504. 770-535-0123. fandmimports.net
Small Business of the MonthF&M Imports
Mark Bell, owner of F&M Imports, Chamber Small Business of the Month.
Ashton Senior LivingCurtis McGill1012 Enota AvenueGainesville, GA 30501 -Senior Living Communityashtonseniorliving.com
Chick-fil-A at RobsonCrossing Andrew Farr3405 Atlanta HighwayFlowery Branch, GA 30542 (770) 297-9045-Restaurant & Catering cfarestaurant.com
Orizon IPEJonas Motiejunas 6300 Powers Ferry Road
Suite 600-268Atlanta, GA 30339 (678) 357-5739-Environmental Consulting
PC & Cell M.D.Frances Martin5900 Spout Springs Road Suite W1 Flowery Branch, GA 30542 (770) 967-0011-Electronics Repairpccellmdusa.com
Resource Property Management, LLCLeslie WhiteP.O. Box 908073Gainesville, GA 30501
(770) 540-7881-Property Managementresourcepropertyrentals.com
Mark Wilson4677 Beacon Ridge LaneFlowery Branch, GA 30542 (770) 757-5977-Individual Member
Join the Chamber online:GreaterHallChamber.com Call Kara Tate, Vice Presi-dent of Membership Sales at 770-532-6206 x 116. Email: [email protected]
Welcome New Members!
Biz Card Ad2 columns 4.4167 x2.0"
The Chamber's South Hall Business Coalition heard a program by non-profits in South Hall. (L-R): Cheryl Shippey, Northeast Georgia Medical Center Foundation; Kit Dunlap, Greater Hall Chamber; Sheri Hooper, INK; Kyle Ivey, ‘Just’ People, Inc; Terri Armour, Action Ministries; Steven Mickens, Boys & Girls Clubs of Hall County; Tabitha McGowen, Goodwill; Steve Mueller, Georgia Mountain Food Bank; Coalition Chairman Andy Kalinauskas, Conditioned Air Systems; Don Colombero, Legacy Link; Andrea Timpone, Elachee Nature Science Center; Ann Gainey, Choices Pregnancy Care Center. The upcoming South Hall Business Coalition is Tuesday, January 19 with an update on Lanier Technical College by Dr. Ray Perren, LTC President. The meeting will be held at the Lanier Tech Oakwood Campus Lecture Hall, located in Building 300, First Floor, Room 301. Chamber South Hall Business Coalition meetings are sponsored by Milton Martin Honda and Red Clay Interactive. Light breakfast included. $5 Chamber Members; $15 Non-Members. Details: Megan Martin, 770-532-6206. Email: [email protected]
South Hall Business Coalition
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ADDING YEARS TO LIFE & LIFE TO YEARS
Serving Northeast Georgia Since 1967
Dr. Denise Funk • Dr. Chris Potter
984 Thompson Bridge Rd • Gainesville, GA770-532-1217 • www.vetamc.com
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January 5, 2016 • An A
dvertising Supplement to The Tim
esAre you happy with your present stage in life or do you feel you can achieve so much more? If you’re not living your dream life, do you know where to turn to achieve the success you’re capable of achieving? To answer these questions, attend the Small Business Seminar Tuesday, January 12 from 7:45 - 9:30 am at the Lanier Technical College Manufacturing Development Center at Featherbone Communiversity.
Robert Mallon of the Rusty Lion Academy will present "How to Stop Limping and Have Your Best Year Ever!" This seminar will give you tools to help you structure your days, weeks and life so that you get a lot more done this year and in the future with much less stress and a lot more focus, happiness and satisfaction. If you feel like you have some unrealized potential, you owe it to yourself to attend. Robert is a professional speaker and co-founder of the Rusty Lion Academy. He helps people create outer wealth and inner significance so that they can have extraordinary lives. Check Robert out online at RustyLionAcademy.com
No charge for Chamber members; $15 Non-members. Details: Amanda Lewis, 770-532-6206 x 111. Email: [email protected]. Online: greaterhallchamber.com
Small Business Seminar
Robert Mallon of the Rusty Lion Academy is a nationally recognized, professional speaker, business coach, mentor, and meeting facilitator with over 35 years of experience working with nationally known corporations. Don't miss his presentation at the January 12th Small Business Seminar.
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The 2016 Chamber Chase 5K Run & 2 Mile Wellness Walk is Thursday, March 31, 2016 at Riverside Military Academy in Gainesville. A Team Captains Drop-in Orientation is scheduled for Thursday, January 21, 2:00-5:00 p.m. at the Chamber. This drop-in meeting will answer questions (registration, awards, t-shirt contest, day of activities, tent rentals) and provide details to help get your team together for the event. Event sponsorships now available!
Special Incentive Training PassesTake advantage of free training passes (limited quantity) by registering in person at the Greater Hall Chamber, 230 E.E. Butler Parkway in Downtown Gainesville. Fitness passes from a variety of local facilities are offered on a first come, first serve basis. Must register in person to be eligible.
RegistrationRegistration is $30, and $35 after March 17. Online registration is January 28 - March 24. Participants can register at the Chamber office from March 25-31.
2016 Chamber Chase Important DatesTeam Captains Drop-in Meeting: Thursday, January 21 - 2-5pm at the ChamberRegistration: January 28 - March 24 (Online); March 25-31 (Chamber)Registration Fee: $30 per runner/walker; $35 after March 17Race Day: Thursday, March 31 at Riverside Military AcademyRace Times: 5K Run 6 pm / 2 Mile Wellness Walk 6:10 pm / Awards 7 pmOnline Details: ChamberChase5K.comContact: Megan Martin, 770-532-6206 x 115. Email: [email protected]
Chamber Chase 2016
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Member SIPC
New Year’s is a time to reflect on the year past. It is also a time to set goals for the future, and Edward Jones can help you do just that. We’re in your neighborhood and available to help you take steps now to help meet your long-term financial goals.
Call today to set up a portfolio review.
Happy New Year!
www.edwardjones.com
Reneigh Satterfield, AAMS®Financial Advisor.
3630 Thompson Bridge Rd Ste 22Gainesville, GA 30506770-536-2031
Beth BaldwinFinancial Advisor.
439 Green Street NorthwestGainesville, GA 30501770-534-1220
Rick KimplingFinancial Advisor.
64 North Brooks Street Unit BCleveland, GA 30528706-865-0933
MKT-4592A-A-AD
Member SIPC
New Year’s is a time to reflect on the year past. It is also a time to set goals for the future, and Edward Jones can help you do just that. We’re in your neighborhood and available to help you take steps now to help meet your long-term financial goals.
Call today to set up a portfolio review.
Happy New Year!
www.edwardjones.com
Reneigh Satterfield, AAMS®Financial Advisor.
3630 Thompson Bridge Rd Ste 22Gainesville, GA 30506770-536-2031
Beth BaldwinFinancial Advisor.
439 Green Street NorthwestGainesville, GA 30501770-534-1220
Rick KimplingFinancial Advisor.
64 North Brooks Street Unit BCleveland, GA 30528706-865-0933
MKT-4592A-A-AD
Rick Kimpling, AAMS®
Financial Advisor64 North Brooks Street Unit BCleveland, GA 30528706-865-0933
Reneigh Satterfield, AAMS®
Financial Advisor3630 Thompson Bridge Rd Ste 22Gainesville, GA 30506770-536-2031
Beth BaldwinFinancial Advisor439 Green Street NorthwestGainesville, GA 30501770-534-1220
Member SIPC
(Standing, L-R): Dana Miller, Chamber VP Education, and North Hall Middle Students Lucas Pitts, Fenton Potter, Ella Smith, Ryder Pridgen, Kristen Dowdy, Walker Kidd and Ryan Balch. (Seated) Dr. Shane Rayburn, North Hall Middle Principal; David Griffin and Anissa Balch, Metro Appraisals. As Partners in Education, Metro Appraisals will be sponsoring North Hall Middle School’s Student of the Quarter Lunch, honoring 8-10 students that have been identified by the school as exemplary Trojans. Additionally, company employees will be serving as volunteers and program speakers and offer job shadowing opportunities for students. Founded in 1988, Metro Appraisals, is a long-time Chamber member. The commercial and residential real estate appraisal firm has 14 full-time appraisers and is located at 100 College Avenue in Downtown Gainesville. metroappraisals.com
The Norton AgencyKey Economic Indicators
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Kayla Young, a preschool student in Ms. Nickhol Thompson’s class at Challenged Child & Friends with Youth Leadership Hall's An Nguyen, Riverside Military Academy, and Ivan Martin, Chestatee High School. Youth Leadership's Community Service program began at the Gainesville Police Department with a presentation by Sgt. Dean Staples on the dangers of drinking and driving. The class participating in a simulated driving under the influence using “drunk” goggles while driving a golf cart. At Challenged Child & Friends, the students heard from the staff about the organization and had interactive time with the boys and girls in their classrooms. At Lakewood Baptist Church the class heard a presentation from Jessica Butler, Gateway Domestic Violence Center, on the dangers and signs of teen dating violence. Phil Boneli, Wells Fargo, talked with the class about Servant Leadership and Joy Griffin, United Way of Hall County, led the class on an interactive Poverty Simulation exercise. The day ended at the Boys and Girls Clubs of Hall County with an overview of the organization and interaction with youth. Many thanks to McDonald’s for sponsoring the breakfast.
Youth Leadership Hall
Partners in Education
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Permits Issued - Hall County
Housing Area Permits Nov. Nov. Oct Total 2015County 2015 2014 2015 2014 YTDBarrow 11 25 22 286 308 Dawson 11 12 10 108 100
Gwinnett 138 89 229 2,531 1,772 Forsyth 179 157 172 2,662 1,947
Hall 38 34 60 581 638 Jackson 16 13 13 107 178
Homes Sold and Closed and Average Price of Home Nov. Avg Nov Avg Aug Avg Total Avg Total AvgArea 2015 Price 2014 Price 2015 Price 2014 Price 2015 Price
City 15 145,457 15 181,928 26 199,763 239 199,763 255 176,590
North 24 295,023 41 219,237 51 228,907 555 243,134 466 271,402
East 15 137,567 14 124,861 14 130,829 192 119,719 183 130,697
South 22 175,009 15 220,918 26 250,931 184 235,989 409 216,206
West 15 188,068 48 229,999 71 262,683 638 236,685 675 224,767
Previous Month
Oct 2015
60
Latest
Nov 2015 38One Year Ago
Nov 2014
34
2015 Total
6382014 YTD
581
Updated 12/29
The Power To Perform
Data compiled by the Norton Agency. For additional information or other data products, please call:
Tommy Howard The Norton Agency 770-718-5204 [email protected]
Key EconomicIndicators
Greater Hall County
Latest
Nov. 2015
4.7Previous Month
Oct 2015
4.7One Year Ago
Nov. 2014
5.5
10
8
6
4
2
EmploymentHall County
Updated 12/29
Area Jobless Rates
Gainesville City 5.3
Cherokee 4.5Dawson 4.9
Forsyth 4.4
Gwinnett 5
Jackson 4.6
Ga Mountains 4.9State of Georgia 5.7
U.S. 5 N D J F M A M J J A S O N
Perc
ent
LatestNov. 2015$238,317,122
Previous Month (available)
Oct 2015$246,829,528
One Year Ago
Nov. 2014$240,929,969
Retail Sales
Hall County retail sales figures are estimated from the 1% sales tax collected for Hall. For example, $11 million in tax revenue represents retail sales of approximately $100 million.
Hall County
Updated 12/29
3.0
100’
s m
illion
s of
dol
lars
N D J F M A M J J A S O N
1.0
2.0
2 0 1 4
2 0 1 4
12-Month High
Sept 2014
6.2%
2 0 1 5
2 0 1 5
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January 5, 2016 • An A
dvertising Supplement to The Tim
esDr. Miriam Gentin, Medical Director, and Julie Bacon, Clinical Manager, cut ribbon for Fresenius Medical Care. Fresenius is the world’s only vertically integrated renal company offering dialysis, specialty pharmacy and laboratory services,
as well as manufacturing and distributing the most comprehensive line of dialysis equipment, disposable products and renal pharmaceuticals. 1492 Jesse Jewell Parkway in Gainesville. 678-989-0231. freseniusmedicalcare.us
Fresenius Medical Care
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Founder Marty Owens of Randy & Friends and son, Randy cut a ribbon at The Rooster's Perch, a small gift shop and cafe in Downtown Gainesville. The Rooster's Perch is part of Randy and Friends, a local nonprofit that helps people with disabilities live
satisfying and fulfilling lives by providing opportunities for socializing and job training. 210 Bradford Street, NE in Gainesville. 770-943-2400. randyandfriends.org
The Rooster's Perch
Co-Owner Todd Berry and Business Partner Nathan O'Neill cut a ribbon at Wrenched Bicycles' new location. Specializing in re-builds and custom fits, they seek to increase cycling activity in the Hall County area and offer all types of bikes and a variety of brands such as Cannondale, Specialized and Colnago and a variety of quality biking accessories. Each week, they host rides for the community with levels from beginner to the more experienced. 302 Broad Street, Suite B, Gainesville, GA 30501. 770-287-8842. wrenchedbicycles.com
Wrenched Bicycles Relocates
Frances Martin cuts ribbon for PC & Cell M.D., a computer and cell repair service with highly trained and cer-tified technicians. PC & Cell M.D. believes in buying the best and only purchases A+ rat-ed, quality parts from trusted suppliers and offers an ironclad 90-
day warranty on all parts and labor, 100% satisfaction guaranteed. 5900 Spout Springs Road, Suite W1, Flowery Branch, GA 30542. 770-967-0011. pccellmdusa.com
PC & Cell M.D. in Flowery Branch
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vardeman.comSTRATEGIC MARKETING | ADVERTISING | PUBLIC RELATIONS
TABITHA D. WEAVER Social Media Specialist & Graphic Artist • CAREER – Having grown
up with social media, Tabitha fully understands its power, intricacies and ever-changing landscape. She excels at developing and implementing effective strategies for a wide variety of our B to B and consumer clients. She joined MVC as a graphic artist in 2013.
• EDUCATION – Tabitha graduated from the University of North Georgia in 2013 with a BA in English and minor in studio art. While in school, she was the editor-in-chief of the yearbook, managing editor of the literary magazine, and president and founder of the environmental awareness club.
• COMMUNITY – Vice chair of the board of directors for Northern Star Transitional & Independent Living; national advocate for beekeeping.
At Morton Vardeman & Carlson, we know that every single communication is a unique and precious opportunity to make a positive impact on our clients’ behalf. So by blending the freshest approaches with tried and true tactics, we devise well-balanced, focused strategies that work. We do it with professionals like:
wisdom comes from experienceyears
plus
0218 MVC 2016 Biz Link ads_Tabitha.indd 1 12/9/15 3:38 PM
12-Month High
Sept 2014
6.2%
Small Business Marketing Workshop Tuesday, February 14
Marketing TrendsPresented by Gordon Sawyer
8:00 - 10:00 a.m. – The Oaks at Lanier Charter Career Academy
Business After HoursThursday, February 16
5:00 - 7:00 p.m.Luna's Restaurant 200 Main Street
Hunt Tower in Downtown Gainesville
Arbor Day CelebrationFriday, February 17
10:00 a.m.Frances Meadows Center
Safe & Green Regional AssemblyFriday, February 24
8:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.Georgia Mountains Center
Annual Transportation ForumWednesday, March 1411:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Gainesville State College
Job Fair and Career ExpoWednesday, March 2810:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Georgia Mountains Center
Back Page Ad10 x 7.5
Upcoming Chamber Events
Get Details & Register Online:greaterhallchamber.com
U.S. POSTAGE PAIDPERMIT #47
GAINESVILLE, GA
CAR-RT SORT
This publication is printed on partially recycled paper.
Back Page Ad10 x 7.5
Upcoming Chamber EventsTuesday, January 12Small Business SeminarRobert Mallon, Rusty Lion Academy7:45 a.m. - 9:30 a.m.Lanier Tech MDC at Featherbone
Thursday, January 14Business After HoursSponsored by Halski Systems5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.3030 McEver Road in Gainesville
Friday, January 15Logistics Forum8:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.
University of North Georgia Gainesville Continuing Education Building #10
Tuesday, January 19South Hall Business CoalitionDr. Ray Perren, Lanier Technical College8:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m.Lanier Technical College / OakwoodLecture Hall / Building 300 / Room 301
Tuesday, January 26Small Business Workshop"Lean Principles for Small Business" Dr. James Taylor, Brenau University8:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.
Brenau University in GainesvilleJacobs Building / Green Street
Thursday, February 4Buy Local Expo / Safe & GreenExpo: 2:00 - 7:00 p.m.Business After Hours: 5:00 - 7:00 p.m.Gainesville Civic Center
Details & Register Onlinegreaterhallchamber.com
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325 Washington street • gainesville, ga770.536.1100 • www.peachs ta tebank .com
If your goal for 2016 is to start saving more, stop by Peach State Bank & Trust andlet one of our knowledgeable employees find the best savings account for you! From PersonalSavings to Certificates of Deposit, Money Market Accounts to IRAs, we’re bound to have an account to help
jumpstart your savings in the New Year!